26 flights cancelled at Srinagar airport; schools shut, highways blocked
SRINAGAR, JAN 23 : A severe spell of snowfall across the Kashmir Valley on Friday brought normal life to a standstill, leading to the cancellation of at least 26 flights at Srinagar’s Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, closure of major highways and several schools, and disruption of road traffic in higher reaches.
The intense weather — attributed to a western disturbance over the region — began affecting operations at the Srinagar airport from the morning, with airlines issuing advisories about delayed take-offs and landings. Airport authorities said snow clearance operations were underway on runways, but continuous snowfall hampered efforts.
IndiGo, SpiceJet and Air India issued statements noting that all departures and arrivals had been temporarily suspended. IndiGo said boarding might be completed in advance to expedite departures when clearance is given. Air India said its ground staff were assisting affected passengers and that services would resume once conditions improve.
Key arterial routes were shut due to snow accumulation and slippery conditions. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed near the Navyug Tunnel, while the Mughal Road and Sinthan Pass road were blocked at multiple points. The Jammu & Kashmir Traffic Police stated that traffic had been halted at safe locations as a precaution.
The District Administration of Rajouri ordered all schools in the district to remain closed on Friday owing to the inclement weather. Similar measures were expected in other affected districts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had on Thursday forecast widespread light to moderate rain and snow in Jammu and Kashmir, with heavy falls at isolated places. The activity is likely to peak on Friday, with another western disturbance expected around January 26.
Popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, and higher areas in Kupwara, Baramulla and Shopian districts, received fresh snowfall. On Thursday, many parts of the Valley plains, including Srinagar, experienced rain and strong winds, which uprooted trees and led to precautionary power cuts in some areas.
Officials said men and machinery had been deployed to clear roads and restore connectivity, but continued snowfall was slowing progress.
